Simultaneous Fabrication of Sm0.5Sr0.5CoO3-δ Nanoparticle-Infiltrated Layers and Electrodes using Electrostatic Spray Deposition and Flashlight Sintering for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Abstract

A novel approach to enhance the oxygen reduction reaction in solid oxide fuel cells is presented, focusing on Co-based perovskite materials. In this study, an electrostatic spray deposition (ESD) method simultaneously fabricates a cathode with nanoparticle infiltration. Flashlight sintering (FLS) is introduced to prevent secondary phase formation during thermal treatment. Using Sm1-xSrxCoO3 (SSC) perovskite electrode material, the FLS method is applied instead of conventional thermal sintering, effectively suppressing secondary phase formation. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction confirm proper sintering and perovskite phase. Scanning transmission electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (STEM-EDS) analysis of the electrode–electrolyte interface validates secondary phase suppression. The proposed method achieves a peak power density of 1320 mW/cm2 at 750 °C, a 167% improvement over conventionally sintered SSC.